Consumer confidence improved in March, according to GfKConsumer sentiment towards investing in major purchases is improving though remains adrift of intentions this time last year, according to a closely-followed survey.

Research outfit GfK's Major Purchases Index figure improved by two points month-to-month in March, reaching a score of +2.

This figure remains four points lower than it was in March 2017, GfK said, with Joe Staton, its head of experience innovation UK, saying "stoic consumers turned faintly bullish" last month.

"Spring is in the air with increases across the board on personal finances, the general economy — over the last year and next year — and on current major purchase intentions.

"The prospect of wage rises finally outstripping declining inflation, high levels of employment with low-level interest rates, and finally some movement on the Brexit front appear to have boosted our spirits."